The Dutch Minister of Health is drafting new legislation aimed at extending the ban on vapes to include the “possession of large quantities.” The proposed regulations are not expected to target individuals possessing a single Vape, but rather large-scale stockpiles likely intended for commercial trade; the specific quantitative threshold for this remains to be determined. Furthermore, the legislation plans to increase the maximum fines for the illicit trade of Vapes.
Key Points at a Glance
- Current Dutch regulations only prohibit the illicit trade of Vapes; consequently, authorities can currently only seize inventory after it has been proven that trading activity has taken place.
- Dutch Minister of Health Hermans is drafting new legislation to classify the possession of large quantities of vapes specifically for trade as a punishable offense.
- The new regulations are intended to target the possession of substantial quantities rather than an individual’s possession of a single vape; the specific quantitative threshold has not yet been established.
- Herman also plans to increase the maximum fines for the illicit trade of Vapes; current fines vary depending on the nature of the violation and whether it is a repeat offense.
Netherlands Moves to Expand Vape Ban to Large-Scale Possession
April 13, 2026. According to De Telegraaf. Dutch Minister of Health Hermans is drafting new legislation designed to extend the ban on Vapes to include the possession of large quantities. This measure aims to enable the regulatory body. The Netherlands Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority (NVWA), to intervene and enforce regulations at an earlier stage.
Current Law Limits Enforcement to Proven Illicit Trade
The report notes that, under current Dutch law, only the illicit trade of Vapes is prohibited. Consequently, the NVWA is legally permitted to seize relevant inventory only after it has been conclusively proven that the stock has been utilized for commercial trading purposes.
Proposed Law Would Criminalize Large-Quantity Possession
To facilitate earlier intervention. Hermans is formulating new legislation that would render the mere possession of vapes under specific conditions a punishable offense in its own right.
These proposed regulations would not target individuals possessing a single vape, but rather instances involving the possession of larger quantities, as such stockpiles are more likely to be associated with commercial trading activities.
Threshold for “Large Quantities” Still Under Discussion
As for the specific quantitative threshold that would trigger this prohibition, the details are currently still being determined.
Plans to Increase Fines for Illegal Vape Trade
In addition to broadening the scope of prohibited activities. Hermans also seeks to deter sellers by increasing the maximum fines applicable to illicit trading.
The report mentions that Vapes are frequently sold via social media platforms such as Snapchat and TikTok. The Dutch government is currently still assessing the specific levels to which these fines will be raised.
Current Penalties and Proposed Harsher Enforcement
Current fine amounts vary depending on the nature of the violation and whether the offender is a repeat violator.
For instance, in cases involving violations related to the ban on flavored vapes, fines can range from several hundred euros up to nearly €7,000. Hermans stated that the maximum fines involved would be “significantly increased” at the very least.
Existing Flavor Ban and Planned Increase in Tobacco Age Limit
The report also noted that the Dutch government has already implemented a ban on flavored vapes, citing concerns that such products make it easier for young people to start “smoking.”
Furthermore, the ruling coalition comprising the D66, VVD, and CDA parties has decided to raise the minimum purchasing age for all tobacco products to 21; however, this proposal is still in the process of being finalized.
